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Tim Tebow’s prescence at practice today meant far more to the team and the fans than I think most people realize.
Looking back on the end of the Kentucky game, we all- fans, players, coaches- just wanted the game to be over and “Tebow Watch” to begin. Everyone was just going through the motions. Tebow’s return to the field today was a breath of fresh air for everyone involved. He may not be ready to play Saturday, but we do not need to worry about his general well-being any more.
As far as Saturday’s outcome, I like Florida to win regardless of The Chosen One’s status. This is because I feel that however inexperienced backup Johnny Brantley may be; he’s got to be better than Mississippi State QB Chris Relf. Besides, the big advantage for these Gators is when they get to play their seasoned, NFL prospect-laden defense against LSU’s inexperienced QB and overmatched offensive line.
A conservative, run-first approach is nothing new to Urban Meyer- he has employed this strategy for most of the first 4 games this season, and through much of the early part of the schedule a year ago. Usually, LSU’s suspect secondary combined with their defensive strength in the front seven, would be a reason to expect the Gators to go to the air. But last year, in a home game, Urban only went to the air 21 times against LSU. Having Brantley play all or part of the game wouldn’t dramatically change this fact- he got more carries against Charleston Southern than Tebow, and the playmakers on this team are the running backs.
All that being said, I expect Tebow to be on the field. I just don’t see him being cleared for action by medical staff and being held back. Unless there is some unforeseen setback in the coming days, he will be in the game. But this is a game the stable of running backs and the defense will step up and win for the Florida Gators.
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